Dorothy May Head

Dorothy, known as Dolly to her family, was born in Calgary on November 19, 1941, daughter to Malvin and Elizabeth Lund.

Dorothy cherished her lifelong friendships, developing them at each stage of her life from schools she attended, neighborhoods she lived in and places she worked or volunteered. Her friendships encompassed all aspects of her life, and each was special to her. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile and quick wit.

She raised two daughters, Kathy and Anna-Marie, with her first husband Ralph and became a member of a much larger family and is still known as a favourite auntie. There were plenty of neighbourhood activities, camping trips, out-of-town visits, and frequent hosting of company. During those years, she managed the household, including a large yard, volunteered in the community and at her daughter’s schools all while working as the bookkeeper for Ralph’s business, and serving as the go-to person for many university professors in need of books and manuscripts professionally typewritten by dictation.

Dorothy missed the camaraderie she had in her job at the bank prior to having children and returned to work once her daughters were a little more independent, beginning part-time at Sears Canada in the mid 70’s, first on the floor as a salesperson and later full-time in the Credit Department until the office closed. In 1988, she found her dream career as an executive assistant at Westfair Foods. Here she excelled as not only an incredible employee but also as a social facilitator for the people that she worked with. In her many career incarnations she endeared herself to colleagues and her lifelong friendship circle expanded.

In 1993, Dorothy married the love of her life Jim on the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii, one of their favourite travel destinations. Together they blended their families into an extended unit of love. They built a home as a welcoming gathering place for family and friends, hosting parties, neighbour get-togethers, and holiday celebrations. They enjoyed many vacations, volunteering together and ensuring they took care of anyone in need, whether it was time spent caring for others or a quick meal delivered, they were a united force.

Dorothy will be lovingly remembered by her children Kathy (Kelly) and Anna-Marie (Dave); stepson Allan (Jenni) and stepdaughter-in-law Karen; grandchildren Justin, Christopher, Jacob and Alicia, and one great granddaughter; extended grandchildren - Jonathan, Jason, and Jenna (Beau) and their children. She is also survived by her brother George (Lis) and her sister Beverley (Graeme) as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved her dearly.

She was predeceased by her husband Jim Head in 2011, son-in-law Cam Hunter in 2006, stepson Gary Head in 1993, as well as the father of her daughters, Ralph Harty in 1999.

A Memorial Service will be held at Foster’s Garden Chapel, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. For those wishing to attend the service virtually, please use the link below.

If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made in Dorothy’s name directly to Rosedale Hospice via www.hospicecalgary.ca/rosedale.